Man jailed on drugs, weapons charges

A narcotics investigation lasting several months led to the arrest of a Big Spring man Thursday afternoon in the 300 block of Tulane, according to law enforcement officials.
Jose Lopez Chavez III, 43, of 300 Tulane, was arrested Thursday on charges of possession of a controlled substance – more than four grams and less than 200 grams (two counts) and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to Sgt. Tony Everett, public information officer with the Big Spring Police Department, investigators with the BSPD and Homeland Security served the warrant at approximately 2 p.m.
“Investigators executed a search warrant at an apartment complex located at 300 Tulane,” Everett said. “The search warrant was the result of a several month investigation into the trafficking of narcotics. The search uncovered four firearms — one of which was stolen — and approximately 1.5 ounces of heroin, 2.5 ounces of methamphetamine, one-quarter pound of marijuana, a small quantity of cocaine and miscellaneous prescription pills.”
Everett said law enforcement officials also seized approximately $5,000 in in cash and a pair of vehicles. Chavez was booked into the Howard County Detention Center shortly after his arrest. Chavez has also been charged with a Tom Green County warrant for theft by check, according to officials with the county detention center.
No injuries were reported as a result of the raid on the residence, according to Everett.
Bond has been set at a total of $43,500 — $20,000 for each count of possession of a controlled substance, $3,000 for unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon and $500 for theft by check — according to detention center records.
Everett said federal charges against Chavez are currently pending. Chavez was scheduled to be released on bond Friday afternoon.